Sleep Apnea & Diabetes in Reading, PA
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Contact UsSleep Apnea and Diabetes: A Highly Likely and Unpleasant Combination
Sleep apnea and diabetes are two medical conditions that can have a significant impact on a person’s health and quality of life. While the two may seem unrelated, studies have shown a strong link between them, especially in cases of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Reading, PA sleep specialist Dr. Stephen Sulzbach helps patients understand the connection between apneic episodes and diabetes. Dr. Sulzbach is here for you and can explain the science in clear, understandable terms, as well as provide you with valuable information about treatment options available at The Sleep Apnea and Craniofacial Pain Center.
Is There a Link Between Sleep Apnea and Diabetes?
People with diabetes have a higher risk of developing sleep-related breathing disorders, especially OSA, compared to those who don’t have diabetes. This is because diabetes can lead to other conditions known to increase the likelihood of apneic episodes such as:
- Episodes of sleep apnea can cause oxidative stress, inflammation, and insulin resistance, which can worsen diabetes control.
- Obesity, a common consequence of diabetes, is one of the most significant risk factors. Being obese not only contributes to the development of diabetes but also narrows the airways in the throat, leading to breathing difficulties during sleep.
- Sleep disruptions caused by sleep apnea can lead to increased stress hormones, which can increase blood sugar levels.
- Daytime sleepiness caused by sleep apnea can lead to decreased physical activity and poor diabetes management.
- The decreased oxygen intake caused by sleep apnea can further worsen diabetes complications.
- Hypertension, which is common in people with diabetes, is also a significant risk factor for sleep apnea.
- Cardiovascular disease, which is associated with diabetes, can further increase the risk of apneic episodes by disrupting the normal functioning of the respiratory system.
What Are the Shared Symptoms of Sleep Apnea and Diabetes?
The symptoms of breathing-related sleep disorders can be subtle and may not always be recognized as such. Common symptoms of both apneic episodes and diabetes include:
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood swings
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
As a result, breathing-related sleep disorders can often go undiagnosed as a result of the similarities in symptoms. Therefore, it’s important to be aware of the potential for overlap and seek medical attention if symptoms persist. Our Reading, PA sleep doctor, Dr. Sulzbach, can help you understand the difference.
What Are the Benefits of Treating Sleep Apnea in People with Diabetes?
Treating breathing-related sleep disorders in people with diabetes can have numerous benefits, such as:
- Reduced Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: By improving breathing during sleep, treatment can reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and other complications associated with sleep apnea.
- Improved Insulin Sensitivity: Treating sleep apnea can improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control, making it easier to manage diabetes.
- Improved Sleep Quality: Addressing breathing-related sleep disorders can also help improve sleep quality and reduce the risk of developing other sleep disorders, such as insomnia.
- Lowered Risk of Stroke: Sleep apnea is a risk factor for stroke, and people with diabetes are already at a higher risk of stroke. Treating sleep apnea can help lower the risk of stroke in people with diabetes.
- Improved Mood and Quality of Life: Apneic episodes can lead to daytime fatigue and other mood disturbances, which can negatively impact your quality of life. Treating sleep apnea can improve mood and overall quality of life.
- Lowered Risk of Diabetic Retinopathy: Sleep apnea may contribute to the development and progression of diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes that affects the eyes. Treating sleep apnea may help reduce the risk of diabetic retinopathy.
- Lowered Risk of Kidney Disease: Apneic episodes during sleep have been associated with an increased risk of kidney disease in people with diabetes. Treating sleep apnea may help lower this risk.
- Improved Cognitive Function: Breathing-related sleep disorders can contribute to cognitive impairment and memory problems. Treating sleep apnea can improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of developing cognitive problems.
The Sleep Apnea and Craniofacial Pain Center of Pennsylvania Reviews
Dr. Sulzbach helped me with my sleep apnea and snoring. My wife is so much happier now!
I have had the luck and the pleasure of seeing Dr. Salzbach on several occasions. An extremely knowledgeable and professional, who truly does care about his patients. He takes the time to explain options, procedures to you in a way that you've understand and is very up front. I would highly recommend anytime to anyone.
Dr. Sulzbach and Corrine Lambert were amazing in taking care of my sleep apnea needs. I can’t wait to see how much improvement there is with the new device.
I have sleep apnea and felt awful for years. Just constantly tired. I can't wear the cpap. I tried but I just hate the thing. Dr Steve made a dental appliance and I am sleeping through the night without even snoring for the first time in probably 20 years. He's really laid back but straight to the point.
I have been going to Dr. Steve for years. He is a competent and wonderful dentist. It is a shame what Harrisburg tried to do to him. I guess when they need a scape goat to further their agenda they don't care who they try to hurt in the process. Rest assured he is by far the best dentist I have ever gone to and goes beyond the standard of care!
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Are There Lifestyle Changes I Can Make to Manage My Diabetes and Sleep Apnea?
Making lifestyle changes can be an effective first step to managing both diabetes and breathing-related sleep disorders. Lifestyle changes that can help you more effectively manage both sleep apnea and diabetes include:
Weight Loss
Losing weight can be an effective way to manage both diabetes and breathing-related sleep disorders. Weight loss can reduce the amount of tissue in the throat that can contribute to airway obstruction, which can help reduce the severity of sleep apnea episodes.
Exercise
Regular exercise can help improve sleep quality and reduce the risk of developing breathing-related sleep disorders. Exercise can also help manage diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism.
Healthy Eating
Eating a balanced and healthy diet can help manage both diabetes and apneic episodes. A diet that is high in fiber, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help regulate blood sugar levels and promote healthy sleep.
Avoiding Alcohol
Avoiding alcohol is one of the simplest ways to prevent exacerbating your apnea and diabetes symptoms. Alcohol can disrupt sleep and increase the risk of developing sleep apnea. It can also interfere with diabetes management by affecting blood sugar levels.
Quitting Smoking
Smoking can increase the risk of developing apneic episodes during sleep and can also worsen diabetes complications. Quitting smoking can improve both conditions and overall health.
Establishing a Sleep Routine
Establishing a regular sleep routine can help improve sleep quality and reduce the risk of developing breathing-related sleep disorders. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day can help regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle.
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About UsTreat Sleep Apnea and Control Diabetes
For patients who suffer from apneic episodes and diabetes, effectively controlling both conditions is exceedingly vital. Dr. Stephen Sulzbach offers advice and treatments to help improve sleep, lower your blood sugar levels, and improve your life.
If you’re suffering from sleep apnea and diabetes, contact The Sleep Apnea and Craniofacial Pain Center as soon as possible and schedule a consultation. You can also fill out the contact form below, and one of our friendly team members will get back to you shortly. Sleep specialist Dr. Sulzbach and his staff are proud to serve patients in Reading, PA and surrounding areas.
Sleep Apnea & Diabetes FAQs
Can diabetes be cured by treating sleep apnea?
Treating sleep apnea can improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control, making it easier to manage diabetes. However, it’s not a cure for diabetes. Sleep apnea is still worth treating, as it can greatly reduce symptoms of diabetes and other health risks and increase your quality of life.
Can diabetes medications affect sleep apnea?
Some diabetes medications, such as certain types of insulin, can cause weight gain, which may worsen sleep apnea. However, it’s important to continue taking medications as directed by a healthcare provider and discuss any concerns about sleep apnea with them.
Can sleep apnea increase the risk of diabetic complications?
Yes. Sleep apnea can lead to a lack of oxygen, inflammation, and damage to blood vessels and nerves, increasing the risk of diabetic complications. In addition, sleep apnea can also disrupt the body’s glucose metabolism, leading to higher blood sugar levels and worsening diabetes. However, treating sleep apnea can help improve oxygen levels, reduce inflammation, and stabilize glucose levels, ultimately reducing the risk of diabetic complications.
Is there a treatment that is best for managing sleep apnea in people with diabetes?
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to treating sleep apnea in people with diabetes, as treatment will depend on the individual’s circumstances and medical history. Some treatment options may include lifestyle changes, such as weight loss or quitting smoking, or the use of an oral appliance to help keep the airway open during sleep. It’s important to work with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for managing sleep apnea in people with diabetes.